Rugby Australia gets the green light from guru

NEWS: Australia will be able to tap into Mike Cron’s knowledge once again.

After finishing his tenure as Wallabies assistant coach last weekend, Cron has agreed to continue his work with Australian Rugby as a mentor for the next generation of forwards coaches, particularly around the scrum.

An internationally respected scrum mentor, Cron joined the Wallabies in 2024, initially agreeing to be part of the coaching group until the end of this year’s British & Irish Lions Series.

He extended his tenure through to the end of the 2025 Rugby Championship, making a significant contribution to the playing group during his time.

Cron will continue to work across the broader Australian system – more specifically he will mentor up-and-coming coaches, while also working with the next generation of Australian forwards – particularly those in the tight five.

Current Brumbies assistant John Ulugia will replace Cron in the Wallabies coaching set up for the End of Year Tour, with the Wallabies set to play Tests against Japan, England, Italy, Ireland and France.

A former professional player, Ulugia earned 50 Super Rugby caps (NSW Waratahs and ACT Brumbies) and over 150 Top 14 appearances (ASM Clermont Auvergne and Bayonne), before transitioning to coaching.

Rugby Australia’s Director of High Performance, Peter Horne said: “Firstly, on behalf of Rugby Australia I’d like to thank Mike for what’s been a major contribution to the Wallabies since his appointment in 2024.

“He is a great person who is highly respected by all those involved with the game. We’ve been fortunate to have his services for the past two years and we’re pleased he has agreed to continue to support Australian Rugby moving forward.

“Meanwhile, John is a highly motivated young coach and his appointment for the End of Year Tour is a great opportunity for him to continue to develop his skills and gain experience at the highest level. John has great support from the Brumbies and we appreciate them releasing him to help the Wallabies for the duration of the tour.”